Greater London, England, United Kingdom
I operate at the intersection of creativity, culture, and commerce, specialising in executive search across Creative Direction, Design, Art and Fashion Direction, and the broader product ecosystem, including Merchandising and Product Development. As Vice President, Executive Search (EMEA) at Janou Pakter Global Executive Search, I partner with the most influential and forward-thinking brands globally - from established luxury houses to next-generation disruptors - to identify and place the leaders shaping the future of fashion and consumer culture. My work centres on building transformative leadership teams, connecting visionary talent with brands at pivotal moments of evolution and growth. I am known for a highly intuitive, taste-led approach, underpinned by deep market intelligence and an international network developed over two decades. I work with individuals and organisations who define rather than follow... those who challenge conventions, shift cultural narratives, and create enduring relevance. Previously, I was Director at Joe’s Blackbook in London. Prior to this, I spent over ten years with the New York-based Karen Harvey Consulting Group, where I was appointed Vice President, Creative Recruitment, leading international search across creative and product disciplines. I began my career at Smith & Pye in London in 2001. My background in the arts continues to inform my perspective, with a BA (Hons) in Sculpture from Winchester School of Art. I bring a refined understanding of global markets, emerging talent, and the cultural forces that shape modern luxury.
Specialising in placing exceptional candidates in roles at every level in the fashion and retail industry, we are as adept in dealing with luxury and premium houses as we are accessible and mass markets, roles within creative and design leadership, directors of merchandising, and all other related and intrinsic positions for the fashion and retail industry.
Steeped in Luxury, Fashion and Retail, Karen Harvey Consulting Group is an international consulting firm focused on executive search, professional development and brand incubation. With an office in London, and our New York Headquarters, we work around the world with our client companies, which are primarily global luxury, fashion and retail brands, investors, and ecommerce/digital businesses. Clients included: Tiffany & Co. Kent & Curwen Edun Michael Kors GAP Kate Spade Coach The Row Karl Lagerfeld Burberry Celine Tommy Hilfiger Placements of note include: Francesca Amfitheatrof, Design Director - Tiffany & Co. Daniel Kearns, Creative Director – Kent & Curwen Michael Petry, Creative Director – Tumi Rory O’Hanlon, Creative Director Accessories – Theory
Smith & Pye is a fashion recruitment consultancy introducing companies worldwide to the world's best fashion designers.